The application and perspectives of 3D heads-up display viewing system in vitreoretinal surgery

There has been ongoing progress in the new technique and equipment in vitreoretinal surgery in recent years, contributing to the improvement of treatment of various vitreoretinal diseases. The application of 3D heads-up display viewing system (3D viewing system) has been one of the most fascinating breakthroughs in vitreoretinal surgery. Unlike the traditional method in which the surgeons have to look through the microscope eyepieces, this system allows them to turn their heads up and operate with their eyes on a high-definition 3D monitor. It provides the surgeons with superior visualization and stereoscopic sensation. And increasing studies have revealed it to be as safe and effective as the traditional microscopic system. Furthermore, the surgeons can keep a heads-up position in a more comfortable posture and lesson the pressure on cervical spine. Meanwhile, 3D viewing system makes it easier for the teaching and learning process among surgeons and assistants. However, there are still potential disadvantages including the latency between surgeon maneuver and visualization on the display, learning curves and cost. We hope that the 3D viewing system will be widely used and become a useful new tool for various vitreoretinal diseases in the near future with rapid development in the technology and constant upgrade of the system. Key words: Retinal diseases/surgery; Vitreoretinal surgery; Ophthalmology/trends; Editorial; 3D heads-up display viewing system